Rami Gabriel Ph.D.

Why We Watch Movies

The ritual of cinema adds to its appeal..

Posted June 21, 2021 | Reviewed by Davia Sills

It is illuminating to consider how religion and belief have been transformed into seemingly secular activities in the modern world. One way to approach this is to identify our rituals, to think about what people do at night, in the darkness beyond the demands of labor and domestic life. We are thus led to the spaces we set aside for communal behaviors that are unique from prosaic life. These sacred spaces are separate from the everyday, the profane. As Émile Durkheim wrote over a hundred years ago, sacred spaces are those in which powerful, transformative events take place for individuals as part of a collective.

Rituals, like a sacrifice, occur in the enclosed space of the ritual arena. In these spaces, different rules apply. They bring about different ways of relating to the community, to ancestors, time, and fundamental notions of meaning and significance. In this essay, I claim cinema is such a sacred space and discuss how and why it works so effectively.

benefits of watching movies essay

Movies and the power of ritual

Myth and ritual are central to how every society collates, creates, and perpetuates the core of its significances, values, aspirations, origins, goals , and ethical lineaments. Over the last 80 years, cinema has become a reliable, effective medium for telling stories. In other words, cinema is a preeminent mode for the generation of participation in the myths of our times. The emotional intensity of the ritual, of contact with mythology, is what draws belief, salience, and importance into the encounter.

In movies , the scale of human action takes on mythic proportions. Not only in size but also in terms of the importance of gesture, storyline, character, emotions, settings, and scenes. Archetypal characters bring to life finely-wrought scripts wherein storylines illustrate moral reflections, aspirational narratives, and the dramatization of historical events. The finely selected dialogue in movies is so crucial that it resembles the manifest content of dialogue in dreams . Freud of course claimed that every word uttered in a dream is of utmost importance since the medium of dreams is visual, and thus any words that sneak through the censor must be vital.

The art of filmmaking is extremely difficult; one look at the credits tells you hundreds of people and hundreds of thousands of dollars have gone into any given movie. The layers of censors from investors to editors to distribution companies (and so many more) make every scene highly improbable. Relative to the stories of all the people in the theater and the people who made the film, the production necessary to make a film demonstrates that it functions at a higher level of proportionality. Granted, not all movies are effective and worthy of the treatment I describe here, but many are—those are the movies to which I apply these reflections.

It is also the atmosphere of cinema that creates a form of ritual space. The movie theater, a room with no windows suffused with darkness but for the light burning through translucent celluloid. We sit among strangers with whom we share emotional reactions to shared events. By sharing reactions, we share and reinforce a cultural lens.

The communal setting of the ritual arena of theater itself elevates the event. It confirms us as a community and builds our shared history and interpretation of reality out further and further. Light flickers on the screen, which is 45 to 65 feet wide and as tall as 30 feet. Cinema is larger than life; that is how it can represent life to us in a mimetic ritual of drama . We understand something about ourselves by becoming other, by being taken in by the story and coming out the other end in a slightly different form.

Then there is the narrative, the aesthetic charm poured into the dramatic form. That distillation of life into moments, sieved into distinct tales of definite memorability. The overwhelmingly melodramatic format of the journey, the love triangle, the conflict, etc., pushes us to identify with the characters. We are brought into an empathetic mood. Some movies bring us into the community of the characters such that plot development resembles nothing so much as gossip.

Time is transformed in the cinematic state; for us, it is an escape , a vacation, a portal out of the world and the uncontrollable nature of time. The liminality of being out of time in a dark room doing nothing allows for separation from so much that binds us. We are freed from speaking, from the dense maze of active interactions that make up public life. Here we are voyeurs who participate emotionally even when nothing is asked of us. The filmmaker does it all: through montage, a story comes together; through casting, we are directed to recognize characters; through lighting and sound, we are immersed in environments. All we have to do is keep our eyes and ears open. If we give our attention , the screen creates the illusion of four dimensions. It offers them to us; it takes them all up and drags us in its wake.

Dreaming

After the liminal space of the ritual of cinema, we walk out of the room discombobulated, sensitive to light and motion. We reaggregate ourselves after having become part of a different reality. We reflect upon what we saw and heard, in groups or in internal dialogue. The movie becomes part of our memory ; sometimes we get confused about whether the stories we remember come from cinema or stories we’ve heard about people. We take the movie in through the sacred space of the theater and leave with its messages.

When the ritual is over, when the crow and the raven are silent, we return to each other with stories and characters, memories of events that never happened. We want to share them further; we recommend movies, talk about their virtues and failures, and interleave them into our memories of all the other movies and stories we have lived through. The myth has been received, the experience has become a part of us.

Durkheim, Émile, 1915. The Elementary Forms of the Religious Life, a Study in Religious Sociology. London : New York :G. Allen & Unwin; Macmillan.

Turner, V. W. 1969. The ritual process: Structure and anti-structure. Chicago: Aldine Publishing Company.

Rami Gabriel Ph.D.

Rami Gabriel, Ph.D. , is Associate Professor of Psychology at Columbia College Chicago, where he is a founding Fellow of the Research Group in Mind, Science and Culture.

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How Watching Movies Can Benefit Our Mental Health

benefits of watching movies essay

Watching movies can be beneficial for your mental health and serve as more than just a hobby or pastime.

Watching movies is an activity that has long been regarded as simply a pastime to enjoy when you have a free moment from life’s responsibilities.

While too much screen time can be harmful, engaging in hobbies that balance your work and professional life can be healthy.

What are the benefits of watching movies?

Movies can provide several mental health benefits.

If you live with an anxiety disorder or depression , or you’re simply anxious and stressed about work and family commitments, taking time to watch a movie could help improve your mood.

A 2016 review found that enjoying leisure activities such as watching movies could boost mood and reduce symptoms of depression.

Pleasurable distractions and entertainment could provide rest and relaxation and replenishing qualities, according to a 2017 study .

Finding relaxation by watching a movie might be easier than it sounds. It might be a good idea to eliminate unnecessary distractions during the movie.

If you have trouble disconnecting from work or other daily stressors, consider leaving your phone and other devices in another room or on “do not disturb” mode so that you’re interrupted only for urgent matters.

You might find that you’re able to engage your mind with the plot you’re following without distractions, which could make for a more soothing experience.

A musical or romantic comedy, aka rom-com, could be just the distraction you need to relax after a long day.

Watching movies could be motivational in many ways.

Giving your mind a break from work for something enjoyable could motivate you to be more productive when you get back to it and to ward off feelings of burnout .

If the movie highlights someone successfully chasing their ambitions, it could motivate you to do the same. It might also inspire you to take up a new hobby or pursue a new goal, according to a 2020 study .

Improve relationships

If you’ve been feeling some level of disconnect between someone close to you — whether it’s your romantic partner, best friend, or child — watching movies together could be just the ticket to rekindle your relationship.

It could be especially helpful if you have the same taste in movies and choose something new that you’re both enthused about watching.

Not only will you bond in the moment of watching, but you might feel a renewed sense of connection when you discuss what you watched afterward.

Reduce stress

A good comedy could help lower your stress levels. A 2016 study found that laughter could reduce the levels of hormones in the body responsible for stress, such as cortisol and epinephrine.

If you’re not in the mood to laugh, consider a drama or tearjerker. Crying could also lower cortisol levels in the blood, according to a 2020 study .

Inspire social and cultural reflection

Watching films that take on tough topics could be a thought-provoking experience for you.

Whether you want to better understand a current social issue or spark a conversation about an opposing point of view, watching films could help educate and enlighten.

What is cinema therapy?

Aside from providing entertainment and a distraction from a stressful day, watching movies could also be a therapy technique.

Cinema and video therapy are sometimes used as a part of psychotherapy . Therapists might use this type of therapy to expose you to a character who might be having a similar emotional experience, according to a 2021 study .

It could also encourage you to look at your situation from a different perspective, providing new ways of coping.

A therapist might choose a commercial film or video (documentary) related to your challenges. If you’re having trouble in your romantic relationship, you might be instructed to watch a film with the same theme.

You might also be given therapeutic exercises to perform before, during, or after viewing.

The movie, genre, and the theme chosen will depend on your situation.

Let’s recap

Engaging in activities you enjoy, such as watching movies, can be beneficial. It could boost your mental health, relieve stress, and foster relationships.

Still, movies aren’t a treatment or cure for your mental health symptoms. If your symptoms interfere with your daily life, a mental health professional could help.

They might be able to determine whether cinema therapy would work for you and your lifestyle.

Last medically reviewed on February 25, 2022

7 sources collapsed

  • Chadwick D, et al. (2018). Investigating humor in social interaction in people with intellectual disabilities: A systematic review. https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2018.01745/full
  • Eden A, et al. (2017). Entertainment as a creature comfort: Self-control and selection of challenging media. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/15213269.2017.1345640
  • Goodman W, et al. (2016). Leisure activities are linked to mental health benefits by providing time structure: Comparing employed, unemployed, and homemakers. https://jech.bmj.com/content/71/1/4
  • Niemiec R. (2020). Character strengths cinematherapy: Using movies to inspire change, meaning, and cinematic elevation. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/jclp.22997
  • Sacilotta E, et al. (2021). Through the looking glass: A scoping review of cinema and video therapy. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/labs/pmc/articles/PMC8786706/
  • Sharma L, et al. (2020). Using crying to cope: Physiological responses to stress following tears of sadness. https://content.apa.org/record/2019-36930-001
  • Yim J. (2016). Therapeutic benefits of laughter in mental health: A theoretical review. https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/tjem/239/3/239_243/_article

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Essay on Movies: Advantages and Disadvantages 

benefits of watching movies essay

  • Updated on  
  • Dec 19, 2023

Essay on Movies

Essay on Movies:   Movies create a huge impact on human life. It can be positive as well as negative. People learn and implement new and innovative things from movies in real life. For example, learning new languages, getting inspiration, self-motivation, and gaining more insight and understanding are examples of the brighter side of movies. 

On the contrary, movies with a provoking message that disturbs peace and harmony, inappropriate content, and gender discrimination contribute to desensitization and normalizing harmful behaviors. 

Essay on Movies: Impact of Movies on Society

The motive for watching movies can differ from person to person. For some, it can just be a pastime, but for others, it can present a real-life context for learning. Therefore, it plays a vital role in shaping societal norms and influencing the culture.

Also, movies have the power to evoke emotions in the audience. Besides, it has the potential to raise awareness and promote social change by addressing important issues. Further, movies also serve as a form of entertainment and cultivate a sense of shared experience among the audience. 

Now, let us analyze the advantages and disadvantages of movies to evaluate their impact on society:

Advantages of Movies :

1. Source of Entertainment: Movies are the best mode of enjoyable and immersive entertainment. When one gets bored with the same routine work and needs relaxation, the cinematic experience, with its special effects, music, and storytelling techniques, helps provide a unique way of escaping reality. 

2. Form of Storytelling: Stories take us to a world where we can explore different stories, characters, and themes. Film directors, with the help of visuals and narrative methods, help convey a message and evoke emotions in the audience while developing a connection with the story being told.

3. Means of Social Bonding: Sitting in front of the television and watching a movie with family is fun on another level. It doesn’t matter whether it’s a night out at the cinema or a movie night at home; the experience of bonding among friends and family cannot be explained in words.

Also Read: Film Direction, Drama, and Theatre Archives 

Disadvantages of Movies:

Now, let us understand what adverse effects movies can have on the audience: 

  • Negative Influence: Movies with harmful content such as misogyny, celebration of communal violence, racism, and glorification of patriarchy create an adverse impact on the impressionable audience. Therefore, as viewers, it is important to understand the message conveyed very carefully and its potential consequences. 
  • Time-Consuming: Also, watching movies for long hours can interfere with work, studies, and other activities. It is, therefore, required to create a balance between leisure and responsibilities. However, this does not apply to present-day and future generations of filmmakers, actors, scriptwriters, cinematographers, camera operators, etc. 
  • Expensive: Watching movies is a costly undertaking. Whether tickets, streaming subscriptions, or home entertainment comes with a heavy expense. If one is a regular moviegoer, watching movies can lead to a potential drawback. 

Thus, it is essential to carefully analyze the messaging of movies. It is our responsibility to watch movies as a source of entertainment and not indulge in wrongdoings. Also, cinema is a beautiful art form and a great source of learning for technicians, writers, and filmmakers.

Also Read: Film Making Courses

Ans. Time consumption, social isolation, and distorted realities are the negative impacts of movies on society. 

Ans. Career opportunities, technological advancements, and emotional impacts are some of the positive impacts of movies on society. 

Ans. The movies aim to serve content suitability, so movies are served with different ratings. 

Ans. Movies serve as a source of entertainment, a means of relaxation, and a platform for imparting moral values.

Ans. Lumiere brothers, Auguste and Louis Lumiere are credited for inventing movies. 

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Colourful collage of images from popular Oscars nominees including Bohemian Rhapsody, Black Panther and A Star is Born

Although streaming services provide on-demand entertainment that would've been unthinkable even a few years ago, seeing a film with friends remains an important ritual for many of us.

In fact, if you're like most Australians, you're spending more time in the cinema than you did 10 years ago.

It's not just that we're going to the movies more often. We're also just as interested in film culture as we've ever been. Online searches for "Oscars nominations" have almost doubled in the past ten years, Google Trends data shows.

So what's behind our ongoing love of movies? And is it just about being entertained, or do we get something deeper from the films we watch?

Going to the movies is not only about blowing off steam and having a laugh, explain the five experts interviewed for this article. Watching a film can also be a way of appreciating art (in a format more accessible to many of us than a gallery) and learning lessons about ourselves and the world.

Here's how.

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Films help us learn

"We can learn a huge amount about certain moments in time or certain perceptions of moments in time" from watching films, says Adrian Danks, lecturer and associate dean of media in the School of Media and Communication at RMIT University.

In other words, films can shape the way we're making sense of the world we're living in right now — regardless of the period they're set in.

Spike Lee's BlacKkKlansman, an Oscars Best Picture nominee about a black police officer who infiltrates the local Ku Klux Klan branch, for example, uses footage from Trump-era rallies at the film's conclusion, positioning the film as a meditation on contemporary politics.

"It's obviously a film set in the 1970s and it's able to bring some of those issues or relationships to connect to something that's happening in the current moment," says Dr Danks.

A still from the 2018 Freddie Mercury Biopic Bohemian Rhapsody showing Freddie posed on stage

How "fiction can explore historic events in different ways to a documentary" is a theme that has underpinned the career of Robert Connolly, the Australian director whose credits include Romulus, My Father (2007) and Balibo (2009). The former uses the story of a father-son relationship to say "something about that period of time, the immigrant experience, in that part of Australia," he tells ABC Everyday.

Mr Connolly points to Oscars nominee Roma — another biographical memoir, in this case inspired by filmmaker Alfonso Cuarón's upbringing in 1970s Mexico City — as an example of "an amazing film" that tells a real-life story in different ways to a documentary. The movie follows the story of a family's relationship with its live-in maid to raise issues concerning race, culture and class that remain relevant today.

Films can drive social change

Films have always inspired social change due to their ability to teach viewers about experiences outside their own perspective, inspire empathy, and raise politically charged questions.

"That's kind of their role, to be provocative," says Dr Danks.

In 2004, The Day After Tomorrow helped increase awareness on climate change, Yale researchers found . The 2013 documentary Blackfish sparked public outcry that culminated in SeaWorld announcing the closure of its controversial orca show, and in Australia, Priscilla: Queen of the Desert (1994) was pivotal in introducing LGBT themes to mainstream audiences.

More recently, calls for action on racial hegemony and sexual harassment in Hollywood (see: the #OscarsSoWhite and #TimesUp movements) sparked new debates about racial and gender equality.

This led to audiences becoming "much more attuned to a non-binary understanding of gender, of different sexualities, of the importance of diverse communities," explains Scott McQuire, a media and communications professor in the School of Culture and Communication at the University of Melbourne.

A character in Black Panther looks courageously ahead

"There's now an awareness that if you want diverse stories told, it's not just about hiring different actors," says Dr McQuire.

"You've got to have a diverse group of writers and other people involved in production."

Oscars Best Picture nominee Black Panther reflects that progress. According to #OscarsSoWhite creator April Reign , it "shatters the notion that black films can't travel".

What does all this mean for viewers?

When we buy a ticket to a film made by a diverse team, telling a story of a group of people not often represented on screen, we're encouraging Hollywood to continue making diverse films, says Dr McQuire.

A still from 2018 movie The Favourite

Films help us process difficult life lessons

"Of course stress relief is a key function of films, and it's a major function for large audiences of blockbuster films," says Dr Danks.

But the therapeutic benefits of films can extend further.

Jillian Lynch, a psychotherapist based in Sydney, says films provide "an opportunity for viewers to recognise themselves in a character or some part of a film's narrative in order to undergo change".

Dr Lynch completed her PhD thesis on 'cinematherapy' — the practice of psychotherapists and psychologists using film in their clinical practices as an adjunct to therapy (a practice well known to anyone who's bought tickets to a comedy for some light relief or switched on a tragic love story to cry to after a relationship breakdown).

In other words, films can be "a safe space" where we can find alternative role models to identify with, and observe those characters' behaviours as they tackle challenges similar to our own.

Some viewers also find metaphors or symbols in films that help them grapple with major life challenges.

Dr Lynch's research found the symbol of the ring in Lord of the Rings, for example, has been used by recovering addicts as a way of understanding their struggle. (Frodo is "on that journey to destroy that ring, to overcome that ring, and he never does, he never overcomes it," one interview subject told Dr Lynch. "Even though he's able to get away from it, it still tempts him, it's still there.")

Films are (still) a social experience

Box office ticket sales are on the rise globally — and the fact we still pay $20 to go to the movies, despite the popularity of streaming services, shows just how important movie-going remains to our social lives, explains Dr McQuire.

"The other growth area has been what you'd call 'para-cinematic exhibition experiences' — movie events in bars, or rooftop cinemas," says Dr McQuire. "There is a real flourishing of this sort of thing."

A still from the film A Star is Born showing Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper

Even where we do stream movies at home, we increasingly find ways to connect with friends and communities over films — including on social media, online forums or pop culture websites.

Streaming has also facilitated some films to find a more mainstream audience than they otherwise would have.

"A film such as Roma, which otherwise might have been seen by considerably less people — through streaming is being seen by audiences from around the word. And that's certainly been critical to its popular recognition," says Dr Danks.

Films help us appreciate art

Films are often seen primarily as a form of entertainment, but it's worth remembering cinema is also an art form.

Because the medium can be understood as a "combinatory art form" (a type of art that combines other mediums) watching a movie can allow us to appreciate elements of, say, costume and sound design, architecture and theatre.

Simply watching a film can be a way of appreciating art and heightening your cultural awareness — in a format that is more accessible to many of us than a gallery.

Movies are simply "easier to take in" than books or other forms of storytelling, says Ian Davidson, president of the Australian Council of Film Societies.

When we watch a film, we're not just being entertained: We're also admiring something beautiful; learning about the world and ourselves; connecting with communities; and contributing to positive social change.

And, as Mr Davidson points out, "it's all over and done with in two hours."

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Essays About Films: Top 5 Examples and 10 Prompts

Get ready to binge-watch some of the best films of all time and write essays about films with our essay examples and prompts. 

Films are an exciting part of the entertainment industry. From romance to science fiction, there is a film genre for everyone. Films are a welcome escape from reality, providing a few hours of immersive entertainment that anyone can enjoy. Not only are films masterful works of art, but they are also great sources of employment for many. As a work of intellectual property, films can promote job creation and drive economic growth while advancing a country’s cultural esteem. With such a vast library of films available to us, many topics of discussion are available for your next essay.

5 Intriguing Film Essays

1. scream therapy: the mental health benefits of horror movies by michael varrati, 2. reel truth: is film school worth it by jon gann, 3. why parasite’s success is forcing a reckoning in japan’s film industry by eric margolis, 4. streaming services want to fill the family movie void by nicole sperling, 5. church, critics say new movie on marcos family distorts philippine history by camille elemia, 10 engaging writing prompts on essays about films, 1. the best film that influenced me, 2. the evolution of animated films, 3. women in modern films, 4. creating short films, 5. diversity in films, 6. film critique of my favorite film, 7. how covid-19 changed the film industry, 8. promoting independent films , 9. importance of marketing strategies in films’ success, 10. how to combat film piracy.

“Galvanized by the genre’s ability to promote empathy and face down the ineffable monsters of our daily lives, Barkan’s exploration of how others use horror to heal and grow speaks to the wider impact of our engagement with these movies that are so often dismissed as having little moral value.”

Initially criticized for enabling sadistic tendencies, horror films are now proven to provide a relieving experience and psychological ease to their audience. Numerous theories about the mental health benefits of watching horror films have emerged. But beyond these profound reasons, horror films could be a great source of thrilling fun. You might also be interested in these essays about The Great Gatsby .

 “These programs are great at selling the dream of filmmaking, but rarely the realities of the business, so students graduate with few real-world skills, connections, or storytelling ability. Unable to get a job out of school, newly minted “filmmakers” go back into the system for a higher graduate degree… The cycle is self-perpetuating, and rarely benefits anyone, except the institution’s bottom line.”

One has to weigh several personal and external factors in determining whether a full degree would be worth the leap and their pockets. Directors spill the beans on their thoughts and experiences with film school to help the lost find their way. 

“Japanese cinema was trending on Japanese Twitter right after the Oscars, with cinephiles and film directors alike airing grievances about a film industry that is deeply flawed despite ample talent and a global appetite for Japanese goods.”

The Japanese lamented their lackluster film industry and waning cultural influence worldwide as the first Korean film took home the Oscars. Reminiscing its golden years of film in the mid-20th century, Japan is stricken with nostalgia. But for the industry to see a renaissance, Japan has to end exploitative labor conditions for creators and censorship.

“The decline today is due to a combination of factors: a hangover from the pandemic, efforts by studios like Disney and Paramount to bolster their own streaming services with fresh content and the risks of greenlighting family films that aren’t based on well-known intellectual property.”

The latest trend in the race to rule film streaming compensates for the lack of family movies in theaters. Giant video-on-demand platforms have started rolling their production and investments into the genre plans for animation and even expensive live-action.

“The film… has amplified existing online narratives that portray the elder Marcos’ presidency as the “golden era” of the Philippines rather than as the darkest chapter of the Southeast Asian country’s recent history, as critics allege.”

A film in the Philippines draws crowds and criticisms for revising facts in one of the country’s most painful periods. But, overall, the movie paints a positive image of the dictator’s family, whose two-decade reign was marked by murders and an economic crisis that was among the worst to hit the country.

Essays About Films: The best film that influenced me

Beyond being a source of entertainment, films have the power to shape how we lead our lives and view the world. In this essay, talk about the film that etched an indelible mark on you. First, provide a summary and specify what drew you to the story or its storytelling. Next, narrate the scenes that moved you the most. Finally, explain how you relate to this film and if you would have wanted a similar or different ending to your story and personal life. 

Animated films used to be a treat mainly for children. But now, their allure cuts across generations. For your essay, look into the history of animated films. Find out which countries are the biggest influencers in animated films and how they have fostered these intellectual properties to thrive in global markets. Research how the global direction of animation is heading, both in theatrical releases and streaming, and what animation fans can expect in the next few months.

Have the roles of women progressed in modern films? Or do they remain to be damsels in distress saved by a prince? Watch recent popular films, explain how they depict women, and answer these questions in your essay. Take note of apparent stereotypes and the depth of their character. Compare how they differ from the most popular films in the 90s. You can also compare original films and remakes and focus on the changes in women characters.  

Creating short films

Short films are great starting points for budding directors. They could require much less financing than those in theater releases and still deliver satisfactory quality content. For this essay, brief the readers through the stages of short film production — writing the script, choosing the cast, production, marketing, and so on. To go the extra mile in your essay, interview award-winning short filmmakers to gain tips on how they best optimize their limited budget and still bag an award.  

Has the film industry promoted diversity and inclusivity in its cast selection? Explore recent diverse films and analyze whether they have captured the true meaning of diversity. One example is when people from underrepresented backgrounds take on the leading roles, not just the story’s sidekicks. You can also build on this research by the Center for Scholars and Storytellers to show the revenue challenges non-diverse films face at the box office.

Watch your favorite film and write a critique by expressing opinions on various aspects of the film. For example, you can have comments on the plot, execution, effects, cinematography, actors, and dialogue. Take time to relay your observations and analysis, as these will be the foundations that will determine the strength or weakness of your comments. 

As it has impacted many of us, COVID-19 accelerated how we watch films. Explore the exodus to streaming during the pandemic and how theater operators cope with this shift. In addition, you can look into how the competition among content producers has shifted and intensified. 

Independent films can be a hidden treasure, but it could be difficult to sell them, given how niche their concepts can be. So, find out the best strategies that have worked wonders for now successful independent filmmakers. Specifically, learn how they marketed their content online and in film festivals. Then, find out what forms of support the government is extending to high-caliber independent filmmakers and what could be done to help them thrive.

The biggest mistake made by filmmakers and producers is not marketing their films when marketing is the best way to reach a bigger audience and gain profits to make more films. This essay should provide readers with the best practices filmmakers can adopt when marketing a film. For example, directors, producers, and actors should aggressively attend events for promotion. Developing viral movie campaigns also provide a big boost to exposure. 

As more films are released digitally, filmmakers must better protect their intellectual property. First, write about the needed measures before the film release, such as adopting a digital rights management strategy. Next, lay down what production companies need to do to deter piracy activities immediately. Some good responses include working closely with enforcement authorities.

Don’t forget to proofread your essay with Grammarly , the best grammar checker. 

For more related topic ideas, you can also check our guide for writing essays about cinema .

benefits of watching movies essay

Yna Lim is a communications specialist currently focused on policy advocacy. In her eight years of writing, she has been exposed to a variety of topics, including cryptocurrency, web hosting, agriculture, marketing, intellectual property, data privacy and international trade. A former journalist in one of the top business papers in the Philippines, Yna is currently pursuing her master's degree in economics and business.

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Why watching a movie could improve wellbeing

20 January 2020

Regular cinema trips may help boost wellbeing, according to a new study which shows a few hours behind the big screen has positive benefits on a person’s mental and physical state.

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The study, conducted by researchers from UCL’s Department of Experimental Psychology (Division of Psychology and Language Sciences) and Vue Entertainment, found a direct link between watching a film and the impact it has on our brain function, social connections, productivity and creativity.

The scientific experiment used a combination of biometric devices, similar to a Fitbit or Apple Watch, and explicit questionnaires to investigate what happens to our bodies and minds during a two-hour film.

Remarkably, they found that the heart rates of the audience members were elevated during the movie, despite the fact that they were sitting still. Their heart rates were between 40-80 per cent of their maximum heart rate, which is what the British Heart Foundation calls the ‘healthy heart zone’, for about 40 minutes of the screening.

Professor Devlin said the study illustrates the strength of the physiological responses to seeing a movie.

“What we see is that the heart rate and electrodermal activity, an indirect measure of emotional arousal, go up and down with the narrative arc of the movie – meaning their heart rates elevate and drop depending on their engagement with the story.

“Big emotional moments in the film, like Aladdin and Jasmine’s first kiss, produced peaks of physiological activity indicating a strong emotional response from the audience,” said Professor Devlin.

Secondary research suggests that two unique elements of the cinema experience drove the findings: the focused activity and the shared social focus. These elements have proven long-term benefits on our overall brain function, memory, focus and productivity.

“Despite the fact that these people are all strangers to one another, their hearts begin to beat in synchrony while watching the film together.

“What we know from previous work is that when people demonstrate synchronised physiological responses like this, they also show stronger social and emotional bonds.”

Participants were asked about their feelings towards the other moviegoers both before and after watching the film. They reported feeling closer to their fellow audience members afterwards simply by watching the film together.

In addition, going to the cinema provides a distraction free environment. “Our modern lives are characterised by multitasking, social media distractions, and many items competing for our attention. Cinema and other cultural events provide space to concentrate and practice focusing. At the cinema specifically, there is nothing to do except immerse yourself.”

  • Professor Joseph Devlin 
  • UCL Division of Psychology and Language Sciences
  • Vue Entertainment  

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Exploring the Psychology of Film: Why Do We Love Movies?

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Are you mesmerized by the power of movies? Do amazing films leave you speechless and in awe each time? If so, this blog post is tailor-made for your delight! We will uncover why the film has become such a captivating art form and provide invaluable tips that enhance your movie-watching experience. Together we’ll explore popular genres, learn about the science behind our attraction to the cinema, and embark on an unparalleled journey through all that Hollywood offers; prepare for a unique exploration into what makes movies so special! Plus, you’ll learn how easy it is for both Apple and Android users to send and receive faxes – all from one device. Let’s get started!

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The Benefits of Watching Movies

A national survey conducted in 2022 revealed that more than half of U.S internet users between 18 and 34 reported often or occasionally attending movie theatres, which was a much higher rate compared to those aged 35-54 (37%) and even higher compared to those above 55 years old at 24%. Have you ever wondered “Why do I like to watch movies”? It can be hard to explain, as everyone’s reasons for watching films differ. Some view them as a form of escapism; an avenue to take us away from our everyday problems and into another realm. For others, it is a chance to learn about other cultures and look at issues through different lenses – enabling us to gain invaluable insight into the lives of people around the world.

There are a lot of benefits of watching movies. Watching movies can be an incredibly cathartic experience, allowing us to feel intense emotions without having to endure the events ourselves. This capability makes films invaluable in helping us cope with difficult circumstances we face; they serve as a great emotional release mechanism.

As one of the thrilling benefits of movies, they can also be an inspiring source of education! Stories abound with precious knowledge and present us with unrivalled insight into life. This can allow us to explore our inner depths and reach greater personal growth, making it an invaluable asset.

How to Maximize Your Enjoyment of Films

After considering the motivations of why we watch films, let’s pinpoint the most pleasurable way to experience them. It is essential to choose movies that you are passionate about; taking a few minutes to reflect on various genres of film will help decide what type appeals to you the most.

Gathering with friends to watch movies can be a truly rewarding experience as you mull over your thoughts and viewpoints about the movies. These conversations may lead to a deeper understanding of the film that would otherwise have been missed! Plus, who could forget snacks and drinks? Make sure to plan for your movie night treats!

Analyzing Movie Characters and Their Impact on Our Lives

Finally, let’s discuss the impact of movie characters on our lives. Films often feature protagonists who embody certain qualities and values that we strive to emulate in our own lives. The Media Institute for Social Change at the USC School of Cinematic Arts , which is dedicated to revealing films that don’t simply entertain but also stimulate our perspectives and challenge us to act, has identified some of 2018’s most influential social impact films. These include Crazy Rich Asians, Green Book, Three Identical Strangers, Black Panther as well as RBG. They can also present us with complex moral dilemmas, which help us to better understand how difficult decisions are made and the resulting consequences. This helps to build our empathy and moral judgment for real-world situations.

By watching films with an open mind and heart, we can gain valuable insight into our own lives and the world around us. Through this exploration of the psychology of film, we can truly appreciate its power to entertain, educate and inspire.

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Send a Fax from Your iPhone or Android Easily

Are you in need of taking fax in? You don’t have to go to the post office any more! With an internet connection and your phone, faxing has never been easier. All you need is a fax app such as FAX App that allows you to send and receive faxes from iPhone or Android device. All you need is to Download FAX App from the Store , it’s a breeze to use! You can even store important documents in your account so they are easy to retrieve.

Finding Places Where You Can Send a Fax Easily and Securely

People still keep asking questions like “What are the places I can send a fax?” If you still prefer to send a fax from a physical place, many locations offer fax services. Most postage and shipping stores will provide the service, as well as copy and printing centres. Libraries may also have access to public fax machines for those who do not own one. There are even online services such as FAX App that allow you to send a fax from iPhone. So, answering the question “How to send a fax from your cell phone” is now easier than ever! To fax in quickly, safely and securely, simply download an app like FAX App.

Final Thoughts

Exploring the psychology of film can be a rewarding experience, whether you’re watching alone or with friends. Taking the time to understand different genres and subgenres will help you find movies that best fit your tastes while analyzing movie characters can offer insights into our own lives. Finally, being aware of ways to easily and securely send faxes can help us stay connected. With the right tools and knowledge, we can truly appreciate the art of filmmaking and all that it has to offer.

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Using Movies in Academic Writing – Benefits and Advantages

Academic Writing Goes to the Movies: Getting Critical in Your Essays

Introduction

Academic writing is an essential component of higher education , and it is crucial to master this skill for success in academic pursuits. However, many students find writing difficult, especially when it comes to critical analysis. One way to improve writing skills is by watching movies, which can provide valuable insights and improve critical thinking. This guide aims to explore the relationship between academic writing and movies and help students to develop critical thinking skills.

The Importance of Critical Thinking in Academic

Writing Critical thinking is a fundamental aspect of academic writing. It involves the ability to evaluate arguments and ideas, identify strengths and weaknesses, and form conclusions based on evidence. This skill is essential for developing high-quality academic writing. Movies can be an excellent tool for developing critical thinking skills because they often present complex issues and multiple perspectives. By analyzing and evaluating these perspectives, students can improve their critical thinking and develop more insightful academic writing.

The Benefits of Using Movies in Academic Writing

Movies offer several benefits for academic writing. They can provide vivid illustrations of complex concepts, help to engage students, and offer a different perspective on a subject. Furthermore, movies can be an excellent way to introduce students to new topics, as they often provide a more engaging and accessible introduction than academic texts. By using movies in academic writing, students can develop a deeper understanding of a subject and improve their writing skills.

How to Use Movies in Academic Writing

When using movies in academic writing, it is essential to approach them critically. Students should consider the context in which the movie was made, the intended audience , and the purpose of the film. Furthermore, students should analyze the plot, characters, themes, and message of the movie to gain a deeper understanding of the subject. By doing so, students can develop critical thinking skills and improve their academic writing.

The benefits and advantages of using movies in academic writing.

  • Enhances Understanding

Movies can help in conveying complex ideas in a simplified manner. If you are writing about a challenging topic, using a movie to explain your point can make it more accessible and understandable to your readers. You can break down complex themes and concepts into simpler terms by using movie scenes that relate to your ideas.

  • Engages the Reader

Movies have the power to evoke emotions, and academic writing can be dry and boring at times. By using movies, you can create a connection with your reader, grab their attention, and keep them engaged throughout your paper. Additionally, using a movie reference can pique your reader’s curiosity, motivating them to read further.

  • Provides Real-Life Examples

Movies can provide a broad range of real-life examples that can be used to illustrate your point. Whether you are writing about human behavior, culture, or societal issues, you can use a movie scene to exemplify your arguments. These examples can make your work more convincing and can help to bring your ideas to life.

  • Adds Creativity to Your Work

Incorporating movies into your academic writing allows you to showcase your creativity and originality. It shows that you have taken the time to think outside the box and find new and innovative ways to present your ideas. Using movies can also help you to differentiate your work from others in your field, making it stand out and memorable.

  • Enhances Critical Thinking

When you use movies in academic writing, you are required to critically analyze and interpret the scenes and themes to relate them to your work. This process can help to sharpen your critical thinking skills and can be applied to other areas of your academic work. By using movies, you are also able to view the topic from different perspectives, leading to a more comprehensive and nuanced understanding.

  • Improves Writing Skills

Movies can provide a source of inspiration and help in developing creative writing skills. By using movies as a reference, you can learn how to structure your writing, use literary devices, and incorporate vivid imagery into your work. This can lead to better writing skills , which are transferable to other areas of academic work.

  • Diverse and Inclusive Content

Using movies in academic writing can also provide an opportunity to showcase diverse and inclusive content. Movies are a reflection of society, and by using them, you can promote different cultures, identities, and perspectives in your work. This can help to make your writing more inclusive and relatable to a broader audience.

In conclusion, academic writing is a crucial component of higher education, and critical thinking is essential for developing high-quality writing skills. Movies can be an excellent tool for developing critical thinking skills and improving academic writing. By using movies in academic writing, students can engage with complex issues, gain new perspectives, and develop a deeper understanding of a subject. We hope this guide has been helpful in understanding the relationship between academic writing and movies and how they can be used to improve writing skills.

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10 benefits of watching movies

10 benefits of watching movies

June 22, 2020 By BREO BOX

If you feel depressed, lonely or you are surrounded by negative thoughts, do not allow those emotions to accumulate in you. Instead of holding them inside and feeling awful all day, try to let them out. The best way to get rid of negative thoughts, and maybe find a solution to your problem, is watching movies.

Movies are not just a way to have fun, but also a form of therapy. And if you don’t believe us, search  cinema therapy  online. And if you spend most of your time in the living room, especially now because of the coronavirus, here are the top 10 benefits of watching movies!

benefits of watching movies essay

1. Positive impact on your overall health

Did you know that cinema therapy exists? Cinemetherapy (movie therapy) is a form of expressive therapy for overcoming medical and mental health issues. This therapy can change an individual’s negative thoughts, bad habits, and the ability to manage life events. People who attend cinema therapy are watching movies that reflect their current issues.

Comedies, for example, make us laugh, and laughing for 15 minutes is just as good for your heart as exercise, said cardiologist Dr. Michael Miller of the University of Maryland. But don't underestimate the sad movies! Sad movies have a positive effect on your brain chemistry too. According to scientists from Oxford University, watching a traumatic movie can boost the production of endorphins, a chemical associated with increased pain tolerance. So, sad movies can actually make you feel good.

2. Boost your immune system

Movies can make you healthier! Researchers have found that watching horror films increases white blood cells, which are essential in injury recovery and fighting disease. But if you are one of the people with heart conditions, you should avoid scary movies. According to some scientists, laughter can boost your immune system and decrease the hormones of stress related to stress.

3. Help you cope with stress

Movies are the best tool for escaping reality. If you are feeling stressed and anxious, they can help you cope with stress. Romantic movies and comedies, for example, can help you overcome the issues in your real life. Comedies have been proven to decrease stress hormone levels and blood pressure. According to the study by the University of Maryland, comedies and movies that make people laugh, caused people’s blood vessels to dilate by 22%, lowering blood pressure and reducing stress.

4. Bring together families and couples

Movie nights bring together families, friends, and couples. They make us laugh and connect us, while we’re having time together. Now during Coronavirus, we all miss going to the cinema with our friends, or on a date. But if you want to have fun with your family and bring more positivity to your place, get a projector!

The projector is the ultimate entertainment device that will take your movie nights with family and friends to the next level. Ace of Spade Portable LED Projector, for example, features HDMI (up to 1080P), MMC, and AV inputs, therefore, this unit can project all your favorite movies up to a 60-inch screen! You can charge it via USB cable or keep it portable with an external power bank!  Get it in a summer subscription box by BREO BOX, grab some popcorn, and enjoy your private cinema projection!

Photo by  cottonbro  from  Pexels

5. inspire you to be a better person.

Do you have a favorite movie quote that you use whenever you find yourself in a difficult situation? If you do, that means that the film made a big impression on you. Even if you didn’t notice, movies have a major effect on real life, but also on our personal development.

Movies inspire us to be better people. It can inspire you to make positive changes in your life, forgive someone, makeup with your loved one, volunteer somewhere, or anything that will improve your life. Movies often teach us what's good and what's not, and certain events or sentences said by the main characters can motivate us to change our lives.

6. Help you learn new things

One of the biggest benefits of watching movies, especially when it comes to kids and young people, is learning new things. The youngest can expand their vocabulary and learn a foreign language by watching movies. A good documentary or an intelligent historical drama can educate you on important issues and events.

Also, watching movies can change our perspective on the people and issues we face every day. We can learn new languages, about other cultures, about historical events, and much more just by watching movies.

7. Make children more creative

One study found that kids who watched fantasy films like Harry Potter have scored significantly higher in tests of creativity. Such movies help them to develop creative ideas and use imagination in solving problems. And not only children, but many adults also get various creative ideas after watching an interesting movie.

8. Help us deal with difficult situations

Movies are not just a form of entertainment. They often teach us lessons and help us deal with difficult situations. According to Gary Solomon Ph.D., MPH, MSW, the author of two books on cinema therapy, if you’re facing some difficult life situation, you should choose movies with themes that mirror your current problems or situation. Let's give some examples.

If your loved one or someone in your family is struggling with addiction, try watching Clean and Sober or When a Man Loves a Woman. Another research found that the symbol of the ring in Lord of the Rings has been used by recovering addicts as a way of understanding their struggle. And if you’re coping with serious illness or death of a loved one, any movie with such a topic could help you with overcoming these issues.

Photo by  Andrea Piacquadio  from  Pexels

9. help you appreciate art.

Although movies are a form of entertainment in the first place, they are also a form of art. Pictures, costumes, sound design, architecture, theatre, and other elements of movies, are all part of the art. Many painters, designers, sculptors, musicians, and other artists work together to create a combination of all these arts, which is called a movie. Watching movies help us appreciate art and often make us interested in some kind of art or artist.

10. Escape from reality and entertainment

Sometimes, we just need to escape from reality for a while and get away from problems. And what better way to do that than watching movies in your cozy bed? Movies create a feeling of happiness and make us people laugh when nothing else can. Besides, movies were always one of the best kinds of entertainment. They’re something that will always improve your mood and make you have fun.

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Essay on Impact of Cinema in Life for Students and Children

500 words essay on impact of cinema in life.

Cinema has been a part of the entertainment industry for a long time. It creates a massive impact on people all over the world. In other words, it helps them give a break from monotony. It has evolved greatly in recent years too. Cinema is a great escape from real life.

essay on impact of cinema in life

Furthermore, it helps in rejuvenating the mind of a person. It surely is beneficial in many ways, however, it is also creating a negative impact on people and society. We need to be able to identify the right from wrong and make decisions accordingly.

Advantages of Cinema

Cinema has a lot of advantages if we look at the positive side. It is said to be a reflection of the society only. So, it helps us come face to face with the actuality of what’s happening in our society. It portrays things as they are and helps in opening our eyes to issues we may have well ignored in the past.

Similarly, it helps people socialize better. It connects people and helps break the ice. People often discuss cinema to start a conversation or more. Moreover, it is also very interesting to talk about rather than politics and sports which is often divided.

Above all, it also enhances the imagination powers of people. Cinema is a way of showing the world from the perspective of the director, thus it inspires other people too to broaden their thinking and imagination.

Most importantly, cinema brings to us different cultures of the world. It introduces us to various art forms and helps us in gaining knowledge about how different people lead their lives.

In a way, it brings us closer and makes us more accepting of different art forms and cultures. Cinema also teaches us a thing or two about practical life. Incidents are shown in movies of emergencies like robbery, fire, kidnapping and more help us learn things which we can apply in real life to save ourselves. Thus, it makes us more aware and teaches us to improvise.

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

Disadvantages of Cinema

While cinema may be beneficial in many ways, it is also very damaging in various areas. Firstly, it stereotypes a lot of things including gender roles, religious practices, communities and more. This creates a false notion and a negative impact against that certain group of people.

People also consider it to be a waste of time and money as most of the movies nowadays are not showing or teaching anything valuable. It is just trash content with objectification and lies. Moreover, it also makes people addicts because you must have seen movie buffs flocking to the theatre every weekend to just watch the latest movie for the sake of it.

Most importantly, cinema shows pretty violent and sexual content. It contributes to the vulgarity and eve-teasing present in our society today. Thus, it harms the young minds of the world very gravely.

Q.1 How does cinema benefit us?

A.1 Cinema has a positive impact on society as it helps us in connecting to people of other cultures. It reflects the issues of society and makes us familiar with them. Moreover, it also makes us more aware and helps to improvise in emergency situations.

Q.2 What are the disadvantages of cinema?

A.2 Often cinema stereotypes various things and creates false notions of people and communities. It is also considered to be a waste of time and money as some movies are pure trash and don’t teach something valuable. Most importantly, it also demonstrates sexual and violent content which has a bad impact on young minds.

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Why Is Film Important to Society

By: Author Paul Jenkins

Posted on Published: March 27, 2022  - Last updated: September 30, 2023

Categories Society , Culture , Filmmaking

I would say that film is vital to society. We’ve all watched movies or comedy programs such as The Simpsons, South Park, and Family Guy. Yes, these are fictional shows, but they can be influential to some people. They have pushed the envelope of what is acceptable in television, and many people worldwide love them. But I think film is so vital to society because it gives us a chance to reflect on our own lives and the lives of others who are different and can offer us a new perspective on life.

The Impacts of Film on Society

Most film lovers are fond of motion pictures, but they may find it challenging to articulate why they’re also so important to society.

  • For the movie lover : there are many reasons why movies are an essential art form, but movie lovers may find it difficult to articulate them in detail. “Movies are just fun to watch on the weekend” doesn’t quite cut it. They know that movies mean more than just an entertaining weekend pastime. They identify with the world they’ve created in their hearts and minds.
  • For popular culture : today, film is considered one of America’s most popular art forms and perhaps even its most significant contribution to world culture. It’s hard to imagine what our lives would be like without motion pictures – those flickering images projected on a screen that have become iconic representations of our inner and outer realities, conveying ideas and feelings from one person or culture to another through space and time.
  • For those working in the film industry , motion pictures have become a significant industry in America and other leading production centers over the last century. They create jobs for thousands of people involved in production, screening, distribution, and other related activities. They indirectly create hundreds, if not thousands, of jobs by creating new markets for staples such as popcorn kernels or celluloid raw material used to print films on reels… and much more! Movies also create economic opportunities through tourism (think Hollywood Boulevard) that benefit all kinds of people, like hoteliers, restaurateurs, shopkeepers, and so on…

Entertainment and Pleasure

For some, it’s simply a matter of entertainment and pleasure. Most people go to the movies to have a good time. They want to be transported to another world for two hours, to forget the stress of their job or other worries.

That’s one of the reasons why film is so important as an art form – it offers people a momentary escape from reality, regardless of what kind of movie they’re watching.

Cinema is the most beautiful fraud in the world. Jean-Luc Godard

Of course, a film can also captivate an audience in ways that TV and other media cannot. It may sound obvious, but a film can engage the senses at once in a way that no other medium can.

The sights and sounds, combined with the experience of being in a darkened movie theater with dozens (or even hundreds) of similarly enthralled viewers, make for an immersive experience that’s quite different from watching TV or playing video games alone at home.

Identification and Identity

For others, identifying with the characters in the films they see or a fascination with the craftsmanship that makes high-quality movies possible.

People love their movies, and for good reason. Movies are the only art form that allows us to identify with the characters on an emotional level. We see them as people struggling with real problems and facing real challenges. We live vicariously through them and find our fears, desires, hopes, and aspirations.

Consequently, film can influence public opinion on social issues and change how we perceive ourselves – and sometimes even how we feel about ourselves.

For me, the cinema is not a slice of life, but a piece of cake. Alfred Hitchcock

For many of us, film is an escape from the monotony of everyday life; it provides entertainment that makes us laugh or cry (or both!). For others, it’s about being able to identify with the characters in the movies or being fascinated by the craftsmanship that makes movies possible.

Some see movies as art, while others enjoy watching actors portray fictional characters living their lives in epic adventure stories or romantic comedies.

Even More Effective Today

Movies have always changed the world, but they’ve never been as effective as in our time.

At the end of the 19th century, the motion picture camera and the projector were invented. The first motion pictures, known as “silent movies,” hit theaters in the 1890s. Not long after, film and television became dominant forces in American popular culture.

Film has changed history repeatedly, but it’s never been as influential as it’s today.

Movies have always been an effective way to reflect the world around us. Through comedies and dramas, through stories of love, hope, triumph, and tragedy, films show who we’re as people through the lives of the characters on screen – not just the ones we identify with, but all of them, portrayed by actors who draw us into their world.

The best films encourage us to think about ourselves and how we can improve our lives and society; they show us how to better understand one another through compassion and empathy while encouraging critical thinking about how we got here and the direction we’re headed.

Movies have always been an effective way to change the world around you because they’re mirrors that give viewers from all walks of life insights into their own lives – or at least fictionalized versions of them.

That’s what makes them entertaining, both for viewers at home (or at the movies) and for those who make these cinematic masterpieces possible behind the scenes at every step of this journey called life.

Tools for Social Change

When films about war reflect the real world with gritty realism rather than stylized depictions of soldiers marching into battle under waving flags, they can be used as tools for social change.

As you know, film is a potent medium and can be used for social change.

When films about war reflect the real world with gritty realism, rather than showing stylized depictions of soldiers marching into battle under waving flags, they can profoundly affect how viewers think about issues of war and peace. For example, the movie Saving Private Ryan depicted the horrors of World War II with gruesome special effects; the opening scene focused on the gruesome deaths of several characters-many viewers couldn’t watch it!

In contrast, old-fashioned films often showed patriotic feelings about the war. In Sands of Iwo Jima , for example, John Wayne plays an American soldier who wants to defend his country against enemies.

When viewers see realistic depictions of combat on screen, they may be less inclined to support armed conflict to solve problems. This is an excellent example of how movies shape society!

Broaden Horizons

Films can give viewers a different view of society than they’re used to, broadening their horizons and making them think about problems in new ways.

They can offer a different perspective on the lives of people in other societies, providing insight into the lives and cultures of other people. Films can educate us about other societies that are very different from our own.

Films can also serve to change the way people think about specific issues. For example, films like An Inconvenient Truth have been used to educate viewers about climate change and move them to action.

Art Form and Tool

In this way, film is both an art form and a tool for social change.

It can entertain, educate, or explore critical social issues.

Films can make us sit up and take notice, learn about a new culture, experience a different perspective, or open our eyes to a world we know nothing about. We watch movies because they’re entertaining and make us think about issues in new ways.

They don’t just reflect our culture; they change it!

Mirrors of Society

Movies are essential to society because they reflect culture, change culture, and spur economic growth.

Cinema is a reflection of its own society. Shohreh Aghdashloo
  • Movies reflect a culture in so many ways. Think about the messages of your favorite movies and how those messages have influenced you. In this way, film reflects culture. For example, a movie that calls for forgiveness will resonate with people who forgive but not with people who don’t forgive.
  • Movies also change culture by influencing the beliefs, opinions, and behaviors of the people who see them. For example, a documentary about child abuse may move you to take action against child abuse in your community, whether by volunteering for an organization or donating money. This is how films change a culture.
  • Movies promote economic growth by creating jobs for thousands of people from all walks of life and generating billions of dollars in revenue each year that’s returned to the economy through taxes and other expenditures on goods and services related to film production (e.g., construction workers building a set).

Some Filmmakers Who Influenced Society

  • Alfred Hitchock
  • Steven Spielberg
  • Walt Disney
  • Martin Scorcese
  • Kathryn Bigelow
  • Roman Polanski
  • Jane Campion
  • George Lucas
  • Agnés Varda
  • Brian De Palma
  • Quentin Tarantino

Examples of Films That Influenced Society

  • The Sound of Music
  • To Kill a Mockingbird
  • Schindler’s List
  • Taxi Driver
  • Close Encounters of the Third Kind
  • Thelma and Louise

Some Major Film Production Centers

  • Indian Cinema: Bollywood
  • Los Angeles: Hollywood
  • United Kingdom: Pinewood

Why have films become such an essential part of the arts?

Films have become an essential part of the arts because films produce new thoughts and ideas, provoke new emotions, and stimulate our imagination.

Does film influence society, or does society influence film?

I would argue that art imitates life more than the other way around. Throughout the history of film, society has continually shaped film. When movies first emerged, they were mostly made for entertainment purposes. However, movies later became a way for filmmakers to promote certain values like social tolerance and equality.

How did Hollywood influence American culture?

Hollywood influenced American culture by reflecting the values and ideals of democracy and capitalism. For instance, Hollywood films promote the idea that people can do anything they set their mind to – the so-called ‘American Dream.’

How can films help us understand other cultures?

Films can help us to understand other cultures by giving us an up-close and personal look at a foreign culture. Films are an excellent platform for connecting with other people’s experiences that are very different from ours.

Why is Hollywood so popular around the world?

Great question! Hollywood became so popular worldwide because of several factors. These factors include:

  • The glamour and popularity of its stars and directors-these people love to travel around the world and have relationships with many people from different backgrounds
  • Hollywood films are culturally universal-you don’t need to understand any specific language or culture to understand a movie.
  • Hollywood films are entertaining- they draw in audiences, especially younger people.

Why binge-watching might actually be good for you

UC Santa Barbara binge watching

Joe Smith (not his real name) cheated on his wife. Up late one night alone, he watched half a season of “Game of Thrones” without her. Not cool, Joe.

Turns out Joe is not alone, though. In a recent Netflix survey, 46 percent of all respondents admit to such infidelity. Worse, 81 percent admit to being repeat offenders, and 45 percent never confess their betrayal at all.

benefits of watching movies essay

This new media “cheating” among streaming couples — watching an episode of a Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hulu or other series ahead of one’s partner — is in fact three-times more prevalent now than when Netflix first analyzed the concept four years ago. This coincides with the growth in binge-watching — viewing an entire season of, say, “House of Cards,” in one sitting.  

Relationship issues aside, what benefits, if any, does binge-watching offer? Is it really just a waste of valuable time? According to UC Santa Barbara communication professor Robin Nabi, people are fascinated by a drama-filled series — from “Orange Is the New Black” to “Downtown Abbey” — and use them to escape daily stresses through what she described as “narrative transportation,” in which they engage in a story world that seems “real.”  

“Typically, these shows are far more dramatic than our daily lives and the combination of the plot, the acting and the music — all that combines to create this very strong emotional experience,” said Nabi, whose research focuses on the interplay between emotion and the effects of mediated messages. “And emotional experiences keep our attention and we engage with them. We think about them. We talk about them. And then we look forward to having those emotions again.”

Binge-bonding

benefits of watching movies essay

Research shows that people tend to develop parasocial relationships with media characters, creating one-way bonds. “They feel like they are friends of ours,” Nabi said, referring to people we watch daily such as newscasters and talk-show hosts. “And because we like them, we keep coming back. So we develop those kinds of relationships with fictional characters as well.”

Whether or not “friends” is an apt description for Frank and Claire Underwood, the ruthless characters who will stop at nothing to conquer Washington, D.C., in the Netflix blockbuster series “House of Cards,” they are nonetheless very popular among millions of viewers. Many streaming devotees no doubt logged onto Netflix at the stroke of midnight for today’s release of the series’ fifth season.

While some may consider late-night or weekend binge-watching a waste of precious time, according to Nabi the opportunity it provides for de-stressing is invaluable. “We tend to look at media as a frivolous experience,” she said. “That really undermines the potential benefits that we can get from engaging with the media in ways that help us de-stress, help us escape so we can come back to our real world, to our families, to our jobs — just feel rejuvenated and ready to deal with whatever is happening in our real lives.”

However, Nabi cautioned that such de-stressing can become a problem for those who spend too much time escaping into their favorite series — it should be incorporated into a to-do list, she said, rather than overtaking other duties.

But with episodes typically ending on a cliffhanger — and the next installment beginning in a mere 15 seconds — hitting the “stop” button can be challenging. Viewers want to know what’s going to happen next, like a primal hunting urge to know “what’s around the corner,” Nabi said. “We’re like: ‘I have to find out.’ So there’s that intense curiosity and anticipation that drives us to connect — let me watch the next episode.”

Escapism can be healthy

Though research has been conducted on the value of media consumption, Nabi disagrees with critics who argue that TV watching is a waste of time. “They say you’re ignoring your spouse, you’re ignoring your work and you’re staying up too late, not getting enough sleep — and there’s some truth to that,” she said. “But another way of looking at this is there are times you just really need to do something for yourself to calm down.”

For example, Nabi’s media research with breast cancer survivors showed that people can watch TV to block out their concerns — from talking about illness problems, from engaging with others — and just be someplace where they’re not dealing with that major stressor. “It can be very functional,” she said, adding that people rely on TV for a range of psychological needs: surveillance (to be informed about what’s happening in our environment), social connection, and diversion.

benefits of watching movies essay

“Media happens to be readily available with lots of options and minimal effort,” she continued. “So it ends up serving that need for diversion very well.”

Beyond satisfying basic needs, binge-watching TV is now part of the pop culture ethos, said Jennifer Holt, an associate professor in the Department of Film & Media Studies. Her students “binge-watch everything.” Keeping up on the latest shows is necessary, she said, if you “want to stay in a cultural conversation” with your circle of friends.

Admitting she, too, is a binge junkie, Holt said she “can’t stop” herself when new seasons of her favorite shows are released on Netflix, Hulu, HBO or Amazon Prime. She’s stayed up as late as 3:30 a.m. watching TV, refusing to limit her “media consumption in any way, ever.” It is, after all, her job.

And does she consider herself a binge cheater? “Totally,” Holt blurted with a laugh. “But I’m really bad at it. It’s all over my face. I don't have a poker face. I get busted.”

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Importance of watching movies

Watching a movie will relieve stress.

Nowadays lots of ways are there to watch films without dragging yourself to the movie theater. Moreover, many of them are even legal. We know that curling up on the couch with your Netflix subscription, let’s be realistic—some experiences are there that you can only get within the walls of your local cinema. A thing which many of us need to think about is a proper way to relieve our stress. The reason for this is that stress is something which can have a negatively impact on your health . It has been revealed that stress is caused by a continuous build-up of tension within the person and unless we release our stress we may end up with serious problems later on. Also, for those people who are feeling stressed, you should do something fun such as watching a movie?

importance of watching movies

Below we have provided you with some reasons as to the importance of watching movies and the reasons as to why we spend our hard-earned money to watch a new movie in the plush seats of a dark and chilly theater.

It helps to release stress: When we watch movies, it is a highly recommended way of releasing stress. The reason for this is that viewing a film transports the person into a different world where they will be able to forget their problems even for a few hours. It can also be said that viewing a film will not immediately erase the problems that you have in real life, you will at least be able to stop thinking of about those problems for some time meaning that your mind will be able to unclench itself. You should take into consideration that the mind is clenched like a ball whenever it is stressed. If you are in such a situation then the best antidote is to find a way to relax your mind before it clamps itself any further. A lot of emotions are aroused when we watch a movie: When we watch movies they arouse a lot of emotions. On watching a movie, we laugh, cry and are also filled with other emotions such us adventurousness or fear. Watching a movie provides us with an opportunity to express our emotions. Here are some more reasons as to why we should watch a movie:

  • If you are aware of the fact that fiancée or your spouse loves watching a movie on the big screen, you will not have to hesitate. You can move forward without any hesitation.
  • The movies are filled with emotions and feelings but also with ideas and assumptions. A movie is able to provide familiar story plots so that we are able to make meaning of our own lives.  They also provide order to the chaos of our world.  A movie is able to suggest to us what and who we should value and also as to what and who we should neglect.  In a nutshell, a movie teaches us as to how we should be and act.  However, we tend to watch movies instead of thinking about them, what they are telling us to do.  Asides from this many of us don’t want to think about watching a movie. This is why the movies are made in a way which teaches us to forget as to how we can think so that we are able to suck up the experience!
  • There is no harm in watching the movies on the big screen: When you watch movies on the big screens it will in no way harm you.
  • When you watch movies, a personal interaction is an important issue as there are many people who recommend going to the theater rather than watching a movie together. While watching a movie you may have to remain completely silent. There is also less scope for interaction. If this is the case then after the movie both of you may sit somewhere at the restaurant for a dinner. You will then have lots of opportunities to discuss a lot.
  • You have always wanted to share your sorrows and joys. However, you have not felt the environment suitable enough: On having watched a movie together, you may want to have a conversation.
  • You will be able to control your PC or laptop by using remote computer access.
  • After watching a movie we discuss it: The storyline of the movie will make us tart talking. This is why both of you may find yourselves in deep conversation about reality and life. This will certainly lead you to a happier relationship. All in all, you are now familiar with regards to the importance of watching movies.

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Benefits Of Watching Movies At Home

People watch movies for all different reasons, for entertainment, relaxation, humor, and even pleasure. For instance, going to a movie on a date or on a family outing can be fun or entertaining. Although going to a movie theater has its benefits, watching movies at home has numerous benefits from watching movies at a theater. In contrast there isn’t any distraction when watching the movie at home, being able to watch the movie at any time or place and not having to pay for over price foods or tickets. At home no one should have to face as much distraction as someone would at a movie theater . In the movies they are annoy previews, rude customers, cell phone ringing or others walking in front of you while you are trying to enjoy the movie. Other examples of distraction at a movie theater are strangers talking through the important parts of the movie and some adults bring little kids to adult rated movies that kick on the back of the chair. On the contrary, watching the movie at home eliminates annoy previews, advertisements, kids crying or kicking your seats, people talking though the movie and people walking in front of the screen when you are trying to watch the movie. Some might say that someone can still have some of these distraction at home while watching a movie. However, it is easier to control these distraction at home. For instance, turning off the cell phone during the movie, watching the movie when the kids are asleep, and watching the movie when your home alone.

Movie Review: Tina Fey

Movies solve everything. If your are happy, sad, angry, scared, or annoyed then you watch a movie. They seem to alleviate your negative emotions by detracting you. I watch movies to solve every family dispute. For example, my sister and I would be sparing over a pair of jeans for hours. Since neither one of us would let go of the jeans, I turned on "Sisters" featuring Tina Fey. We winded up planning our weddings by the rolling of credits.

A Century Of Cinema Susan Sontag Summary

Although cinema is now a priority, some feel as if cinema is no longer the cinema when it was first established. Movies no longer have that special feeling like viewers once had. Today, films are not only shared within a theater, if one pleases they could always have the same experience elsewhere. Moreover, with technology expanding, it takes away the importance cinema once had. “The

Argumentative Essay On Scary Movies

Everyone watches movies, whether it be in a theater or just at home on your TV. The reason that most people think of is just simply for entertainment. The fact that there are so many different genres of movies makes it easy for us to bring out different emotions while watching them. Those rush of emotions are what keeps us entertained and coming back for more.

My Cousin Vinny By Vincent Gambino

Movies have the ability to transport people to different times and places and distract them from ordinary everyday reality. They allow for a range of emotions to be experienced. At their core, movies examine the human condition. There are plenty of deeper truths woven into screenplays and plenty of lessons to be learned, even when an individual is solely seeking entertainment.

1950s Matrix

| Drive-in theaters were perfect for the suburban family because they were so cheap and close that parents didn’t have to drive all the way to the city to see a movie. Their popularity faded once property value increased and color television and VCRs were introduced.

Athletic Concessions And Healthy Options

Popcorn and peanuts were sold inside the theater room. Theater owners generally despised the mess these foods and wrappers created inside their movie theaters and generally tried to keep these foods out altogether.

Movies Are Better Than In The 1960's

Imagine sitting down in the cool air of an air conditioned movie theater, bursting with anticipation to see the new blockbuster. It has a 98% score? It better be good! Then, the lights go dark. The opening screen floods the theater with light. Breathtaking visuals flash across the screen. “How did they do that?!” you ask. In the 1960’s, this never happened. Special effects in movies are more realistic than ever before. Instead of sitting in a sticky theater on a hot day, you can now escape into a cool theater. Today, movie reviews are more in-depth and reliable than ever. Therefore, movies are better for teens today because of special effects, movie theaters, and movie reviews.

Reliable And Reliable

They are two very different settings, but like other things, they also have similarities. No matter where you go, you’re still watching a movie. You can still eat and still spend time with your friends and family. Hopefully when watching a movie one is watching something that have been looking forward to seeing, the movie is enjoyable, whether at home or the theatre. Another thing that doesn’t make cinemas less appealing is that one can whisper in small amounts, as long as no one is being bothered. Finally, similarity is found in both settings, nobody likes their movie to be interrupted by either a phone call or a text. One has to immediately turn of their phones.

Moving To A Movie Home Analysis

The Movie Rental: If you want to watch a movie and your budget is a little tight, consider renting a movie and taking it back home with you. Ten years ago going to a movie would have been affordable, but things have changed. Admission to a film is about $11 and some theaters even offer luxury seating now which

Big Deal Over Believing In Food Research Paper

Another reason is that some people have allergies and can't eat some of the food in the theater . Such as sweet tarts ,sour patch kids and also popcorn. So ,if your child or evan a grown person should be allowed to bring in food that they like

Personal Narrative: Fifty Kittens In My Community

No, but really...imagine siting in a movie all by yourself except for fifty kittens and you have unlimited Dominos. I mean even if you don't like Dominos that much, it's still a pretty sweet deal. I don't think I've ever had a movie theater to myself, not even with a friend. I think there's always been at least

Book Vs Movie Research Paper

In the world of modern technology there are many ways to keep one entertained and informed. Two of the best ways are through the reading of books, and the watching of movies: both are eternal works of art designed for those who would wish to momentarily leave the existent of reality and dive into a world unknown or to question the known world through stories of factual relevance. Both take the entertained on a journey that has been created in the minds of a genius, but, it is the way they take the entertained into their imagery worlds that are different. Books, for example require the reader to use there imagination to mentally visualize the image the author is trying to perceive. Movies, on the other hand, will have the audience mesmerized as the picture comes to life right before their eyes. Both books and movies are great evening actives

Binge Watching : Good Or Bad?

Binge watching also referred to as binge-viewing or marathon-viewing is watching television or a single television show for a long time span. It has become a very popular cultural phenomenon because of the online media services such as Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon video. Viewers can also watch television shows and movies on-demand in a binge-viewing manner with cable and satellite services such as Time Warner Cable, Dish Network, and DirecTV. Movie apps and Amazon Fire TV stick also make binge watching adaptable. These companies offer their patrons their services at very affordable prices and therefore making it that much more convenient. Entire seasons of shows such as Orange Is the New Black and House of Cards are just two of the many shows viewers can indulge in. Other shows that are shown on television and not released at the same time, such as Breaking Bad and Undercover Boss can be found on Netflix and encourages binge watching. Binge watching has changed the relationship between the series and its audience in many different ways such as giving the viewer total control to choose when and where and for how long he or she wants to view the show.

Compare and Contrast Watching a Movie at Home vs. Going to the Theatre

Watching a film on TV is better than watching in theaters this how I’m going to prove my comparisons. It's annoying when you hear from friends what happens in the movie and it ruins the whole thing. It just isn't the same! It depends on, how good your surround system is and how big your TV is, and economic hardships today. It does not mean that the enjoyment of watching movies needs to be sacrificed. There is something to be said for big screen viewing; however, the home provides a comfortable, intimate, and common place for families to enjoy classic or newly released movies. Choosing to watch a movie at home is comfortable,

Watching a Movie at Home vs. Theater Essay example

stopping the movie whereas one does not have that choice in the theater. Movie theaters make it more

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12 Ways Watching Movies Can Improve Your Writing Skills

Utilizing writing skills is an integral part of life, but many people don’t know how to get better at it – even writers! Additionally, many writers are not inclined to watch movies because they don’t think they have the time. They tend to feel guilty about watching movies and TV because they think they should be doing something more productive.

What writers fail to realize is that watching movies can give them the ability to develop articles and manuscripts that can capture the reader’s attention. Furthermore, it is essential to understand that people respond or react differently to visual arts versus reading since movies offer a more concrete image in their minds. When you apply the proper procedures of watching movies, you can significantly improve your writing skills and assuage your guilt at the same time!

How Watching Movies Can Help Improve Your Writing Skills

Study the pacing in movies.

Pacing, also known as tempo, is the rate of movement and stream of events that happens as the movie progresses. In simple words, it is the speed at which a movie’s plot moves. If a film has slow pacing, it tends to feel long, and viewers can lose interest quickly. On the other hand, if the pacing is too fast, it can leave the viewers blitzed with too much information very quickly; it can also leave the viewers wanting more and feeling that there was a lot of storytelling or background information that was glazed over.

Pacing can also be applied in writing. However, it is very easy to watch and consume a movie in one or two hours. One good thing about pacing is that there are a lot of subplots. So, anytime you are watching a movie, try to ask yourself questions. For example, think of how the main character of the film was identified.

Besides the subplots, there is the climax. Try identifying negative aspects of the movie too, and keep track of how the movie makes you feel; at what points did you lose interest in the film? These parts exist, and they mean that the writer didn’t do their best job in certain areas. You can use them to critique your own writing.

The goal here is to identify successful writing practices to keep your audience or readers engaged in the plot.

Real dialogue

You will probably identify good dialogue when you hear it. Imagine sitting in a film, and the scene is intense; however, the dialogue delivery is very poor. You will not only hit the brakes but also be cringing at the film the entire time.

Some writers have a hard time when it comes to writing dialogues. Some films are known for great dialogue, while others have the worst dialogue deliveries. In these movies, not only is the dialogue poor, but the character delivering it is not doing it well. 

To get better at natural dialogues, try to visualize a real conversation. This will help you write content that flows with the situation. Consider movies that have excellent dialogue delivery and the ones that have poor dialogue delivery. Try to identify the distinctions in both films.

That way, when writing your content, you will create a flow of words and avoid making mistakes made by the writers of the floppy movies. Try as much as possible to bring consistency in the dialogues and avoid redundancy when writing.

Making a dialogue too wordy makes it lose its effect. Consider going through a list of famous dialogue in movies from DistroTV to improve your writing.

Enhance character development

The audience gets bored every time the character fails to face enough conflict. The character of a movie must constantly be growing and moving in a particular direction.

Character development is how you create a convincing and realistic fictional character by giving them sensitive wisdom. This is regardless of whether the character is human, animal, or an animated object. Character development aims to provide the character with something to strive for so they have a direction.

Improve your memory

Just like writers, movie directors face a tough time making their movies an unforgettable experience. When creating a movie, the main goal is that the character and the dialogue stick with the audience. That way, whenever they decide to come up with a sequel or when the audience hears the movie is from the same director, they will be tempted to watch it to get the same experience.

It is for such experience that some websites dedicate themselves to movie dialogues. So, whenever there is a blockbuster, you will find them quoting some scenes in all fonts and shapes on their social media accounts like Instagram.

The same applies to writing pieces; consider going through movie reviews and identifying the scenes that make them unforgettable . Then, use that scene in your writing until you become used to writing like a pro.

Spectacular visuals

The best part about films is that you can actually picture the words used in dialogues. A lot of writers struggle when reading content to improve their writing vocabularies. The good news is that movies will help you picture a specific situation and allow you to easily use the image to move your mind into recognizing creative words.

The spectacular visions will also help improve your memory. It is much simpler to remember a picture and incorporate words into it than memorizing a long essay. This explains why many people are better at writing about movies than study papers.

So, whenever you are writing a piece and feel stuck, try to picture yourself in that specific situation. This will help keep your creative juices flowing, and you can quickly write about the situation.

Enhanced storytelling methods

Every movie comes in different Genres that offer diverse information about the characters and plots of the film. If you are a writer who loves watching movies, you can get many ideas about the world just from watching movies from different genres

This knowledge will later help you get new storytelling techniques that you cannot understand by sticking to your genres and specialty area.

Elimination of misunderstandings

If you are like most writers out there, you are usually confused when coming up with stories. However, movies can build your ideas about the word to simplify the writing process. Watching a terrible movie teaches you more about the shameful features that came up in the plot. For example, you can quickly realize that the film has a weak pace and at the same time develop ideas about the improvements that can be made.

As a writer, you then become attentive and try to as much as possible to avoid any scene that might confuse your audience. Remember that horrible movies can be easy to study than books that take a lot of time to write.

Create your writing flow

Look at the scenes of the movie you are watching and compare them to your writing. Does your writing have a good flow, or are you just jumping from one point to the other? Remember that this doesn’t mean you don’t have creative liberty. However, you must ensure that your writing has a satisfying flow from the beginning to the end; otherwise, you will not have an audience.

Apply the stories into your writing

Stories have the power to connect people like nothing else. So, consider using a story from a scene to show a point you want to make in your own piece. In other words, you can take the tone and scene setting and apply it to a similar situation in your work.

Use watching film to find new ways to tie storylines together.

Be more entertaining

You must be entertaining as a writer because your goal is to attract attention. But, also, remember that you are not the only writer; there are many writers out there that are competing for attention. Notice what works in successful movies. What gets your attention?

Determine what you really enjoy about a movie and apply it to your writing to make it more entertaining but always make sure to keep it in your own voice. Try new things while still making sure you’re being authentic. Just practice – you’ll get the hang of it!

Get an improved understanding and use of stylistic devices

Watching old movies, especially the ones produced in the 1950s, gives you knowledge about the use of dialogue. It is obvious that the characters in the film don’t mean what they say. However, they use imagery to show different attitudes and set the movie’s pace.

Movie characters tend to take on various postures and perform different actions to accompany dialogues while establishing other characters. As a writer, watching movies will help you learn and follow the conversations with paralinguistic communications to create a better-written copy. Sometimes watching scenes with the volume off can be helpful. What are the characters doing that lets you know what they are thinking and feeling beyond their words?

Get more website traffic

Do you know that you can drive more traffic to your website by using movie references and titles in headlines? So, try using upcoming blockbuster movie titles and see how your traffic will increase.

The Bottom Line

Writers should watch movies properly and study every artistic feature that is useful in writing. The same thing applies to watching shows. By watching movies or shows, you get to become a better writer who has is both discerning and skilled. You will also be able to eliminate misunderstanding, develop new storytelling methods, know how to use stylistic devices, and create great written copy to capture the readers’ minds.

This collaborative post may contain affiliate links. 

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Surprising Effects Of Watching Movies With Your Family

Having movie nights with your family during weekends is a great way to spend time together. Even if you are in a small family or a large family set-up , nothing beats huddling up to watch your favorite movie. Besides, watching movies is an easy and inexpensive recreational activity that you can do with your family. This activity can be enjoyed even just in your own DMCI Homes condo unit. All you have to do is prepare your snack, probably a tub of popcorn; set up the table and TV; play the film, and you’re ready to go.

Even though this activity is cheaper compared with other family activities such as going to recreational parks or going out of town, it nonetheless offers the same benefits. Study shows that watching a movie with your loved ones is good for you—it strengthens bonds, promotes family togetherness, and builds tradition, among others.

Here, we list 10 benefits of watching movies with your family.

1. Strengthens Family Bonds

strengthen family bond

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Spending time with your family greatly improves the emotional bonding of family members toward one another. And what better way to do so than to watch movies together. Watching movies with your loved ones is not only an enjoyable activity for everyone, it also fosters camaraderie between family members.

Watching movies over the weekend is also a good way to spend time with your spouse and children, bringing the family closer. Make sure though that the film you will be watching is appropriate for the family members’ age to reap the most benefits out of this activity.

2. Promotes Academic Success

promotes academic success

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According to Family Facts, doing activities with your family such as watching movies is a wise investment. In fact, children who spend time with their parents do better in school compared with other children.

Studies also show that children who spend time with their parents on weekends score higher on tests and are more likely to graduate than those who do not. On the other hand, children who spend less time with their parents are less able to focus at school.

3. Lessens Behavioral Problems Among Children

lessens behavioral problems

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One of the benefits of watching movies for children is that it lessens behavioral problems among them. Children who do not spend time with their family tend to do destructive things such as stealing and cheating. Thus, watching movies with your children is a good opportunity to instill good values to them.

As parents, you can also explain the social situations your children see in the films. Doing so will instill to your children the proper values they need to become better people.

4. Results In Less Violent Kids

less violent kids

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One of the best things to do on weekends is to watch a film with your loved ones. Watching movies is not only an enjoyable activity, it also promote strong bonds, leading to less violent kids. Studies suggest that children who do not have strong bonds with their parents are more likely to be violent and delinquent.

5. Lowers Risk Of Substance Abuse

lower risk substance abuse

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A study revealed that teens who spend more time with their parents have lower risk for substance abuse. Whereas, teens who spend less time with their parents are twice likely to try drugs  in the future such as marijuana, cocaine, or other illegal drugs. 

A good way to avoid this is to spend time with your kids through watching your favorite movies in your own condo unit in the Philippines.

6. Boosts Self-Confidence

boost self confidence

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Watching movies over the weekend is a good way to make your family closer. Once your children learn that they have a close-knit family, their confidence and self-image improves. In addition, children with close-knit families are more open with their peers.

Family bonding activities such as watching movies together help children become more productive, thereby increasing their level of confidence.

7. Provides Greater Intimacy Among Parents

greater intimacy

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Watching movies is not only beneficial to children. It also has positive effects to the married couple. Spending time with your spouse results in better intimacy, better communication, and strengthened bond, and in turn strengthening your marriage. In addition, you can provide your children a good example for their future relationships.

A study from the University of Rochester also found that couples who watch romantic movies together help them deal better with marital issues , decreasing the incidence of annulment and divorce.

8. Lessens Sibling Rivalry (Siblings Get Along More)

lessens sibling rivalry

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Children always want attention from their parents. However, sometimes, parents cannot divide their attention to their children equally, resulting in sibling rivalry.

Watching a movie together as a family gives ample opportunity for parents to bond with their kids. In turn, kids will feel loved and will feel that there is no competition between siblings, which lessens sibling rivalry.

9. Increases Trust Among Family Members

increase trust

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Simple family bonding activities such as watching a movie together provides a sense of protection and warmth among family members. Spending time with your family gives your other family members the idea that they can trust you.

Movie time is a good way to bond with your children and spouse. Bonding time can help eliminate any barrier between family members. Movie time is also a good venue for laughs. You and your family members can talk about the memorable scenes in the movie afterward, building a strong foundation between family members.

10. Improves Social And Communication Skills Of Children

social and communication skills of children

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The social and communication skills of children are first honed at home. That is, home is where children first learn how to establish relationship with others. Therefore, spending time with your children during weekends through watching your favorite film is a good way to foster their communication skills.

Watching movies with your kids also encourages children to cooperate and collaborate with others.

Watching a movie or two with your family during weekends is a good way to spend your time. Movie time is an easy and inexpensive recreational activity that you can do with your family. Although it is cheaper compared with other family activities, it is still a good way to improve the relationship among family members.

So what are you waiting for? Start planning now which movie you and your family are going to watch this weekend and reap all the benefits this activity can offer.

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You Are What You Watch? The Social Effects of TV

There’s new evidence that viewing habits can affect your thinking, political preferences, even cognitive ability.

benefits of watching movies essay

By Jonathan Rothwell

Other than sleeping and working, Americans are more likely to watch television than engage in any other activity .

A wave of new social science research shows that the quality of shows can influence us in important ways, shaping our thinking and political preferences, even affecting our cognitive ability.

In this so-called golden age of television , some critics have pointed out that the best of the form is equivalent to the most enriching novels. And high-quality programming for children can be educational. But the latest evidence also suggests there can be negative consequences to our abundant watching, particularly when the shows are mostly entertainment.

The harm seems to come not so much from the content itself but from the fact that it replaces more enlightening ways of spending time.

‘Sesame Street’ as a social experiment

Cognitive ability is a complex characteristic that emerges from interactions between biological dispositions, nutrition and health, parenting behaviors, formal and informal educational opportunities, and culture.

Studying the connection between intelligence and television consumption is far from straightforward, but researchers have developed compelling ways to isolate the effects of television.

Some of the best research has been done on the television program “Sesame Street.” The show, which began in 1969, was meant to develop early literacy, numeracy and emotional skills for children of preschool age. A detailed analysis of the show’s content in its first and second years reveals that 80 percent of the program was dedicated to those goals, with the rest meant to entertain.

Researchers randomly assigned groups of low-income children age 3 to 5 into an experimental group and a control group. In the experimental group, parents were given access to the show if they lacked it and encouraged in person once a month to have their children watch the show.

[The topics new parents are talking about. Evidence-based guidance. Personal stories that matter. Sign up for the NYT Parenting newsletter for the info you need.]

Almost all (93 percent) parents of children in the experimental group reported that their children subsequently watched the show, compared with roughly one-third of children in the control group (35 percent). Among watchers, those in the experimental group also watched more frequently.

Over six months, from November 1970 to May 1971, the experimental group gained 5.4 I.Q. points — a large effect — relative to the control group and showed stronger evidence of learning along several other dimensions. Gains in cognitive performance were especially large for those who viewed the show frequently relative to those who did so rarely or never. A more recent meta-analysis of published research in 15 countries shows that “Sesame Street” has similar effects around the world.

In newly published research , the economists Melissa Kearney and Phillip Levine examined longer-term effects of “Sesame Street” by comparing the educational outcomes of children and young adults in counties more or less likely to have access to the program during its early years. They found that children living in counties with better “Sesame Street” coverage were less likely to be held behind a grade level.

Other experimental research is consistent with the original “Sesame Street” findings. Low-income prekindergarten children scored higher on a social competence index six months after being randomly assigned to an experimental group, in which their parents were encouraged to replace age-inappropriate television with educational television.

Less reading and more watching

In Norway, and a handful of other developed countries, average I.Q. scores have declined slightly in recent years, after rising for many decades. This is known as the negative Flynn effect, a variation of the more famous Flynn effect , which is named after the psychologist who first published comprehensive evidence of I.Q. gains over time. Among native Norwegian men taking an exam at age 18 for military conscription, those born in 1974 scored two I.Q. points higher than those born in 1987.

In an academic article published this year, the Norwegian economist Oystein Hernaes and his co-authors attributed some of this decline in I.Q. scores to access to cable television, which also coincided with a sharp decline in reading. After the introduction of cable in 1981, Norwegian teenagers and young adults drastically cut back on daily time spent reading from 1980 to 2000, and increased their time watching TV. Moreover, relative to public television, cable television had far less educational content and was focused on entertainment and advertisements.

To estimate the effect of cable television on I.Q. scores, the Norwegian scholars analyzed data on the introduction of cable network infrastructure by municipality. They calculated years of exposure to cable by considering the age of eventual test takers when cable became available in their municipality. They controlled for any potential geographic bias by comparing siblings with greater or less exposure to cable television based on their age when cable infrastructure was put in.

They estimate that 10 years of exposure to cable television lowered I.Q. scores by 1.8 points. In related research , Mr. Hernaes finds that exposure to cable television reduced voter turnout in local elections.

Berlusconi television

A similar study was conducted by the Italian economist Ruben Durante and his co-authors and released in this month’s issue of the American Economic Review. They examined the introduction of Silvio Berlusconi’s television network, Mediaset, which specialized in light entertainment such as game shows featuring scantily clad women.

The economists document that Mediaset devoted almost no programming to educational content and did not offer news in early years, whereas its main competitor — the state-owned channel — devoted the majority of its airtime to news or educational material.

To study the effects of Mediaset, Mr. Durante and his co-authors obtained data on the location of Mediaset transmitters in 1985 and calculated the strength of the broadcasting signal in every Italian municipality based on the position of the transmitters and other technical features of the municipality.

They found that children raised in areas with greater access to Mediaset (a standard deviation in signal strength) had lower cognitive scores as adults by the equivalent of 3 to 4 I.Q. points.

People more exposed to Mediaset as children were also less likely to be civically engaged adults and more likely to vote for parties with populist tendencies like Forza Italia and the Five Star Movement.

A handful of American studies along these lines have focused on the political consequences that news media coverage can have, showing that exposure to Fox News could increase Republican Party vote shares significantly, and that exposure to MSNBC increased Democratic Party voting share (but with a much weaker effect).

Art and public health

We know that education increases cognitive ability, so it stands to reason that educational television would also have a positive effect.

Concerns about culture are hardly novel: Plato made a case for regulating the quality of artistic productions to avoid the corruption of youth and weakening of their character. Twenty-three centuries later, it is easier than ever to placate children as well as lose yourself in entertainment options — in the ocean of online videos, podcasts, cable, and streaming shows and movies.

These options are most likely harmless. Some provide relaxation, and others may modestly reshape cultural attitudes for the better; one study found that the introduction of cable TV empowered women in India. High-quality shows and films can be inspiring, even edifying.

Still, media providers and advertisers compete aggressively for our attention. Most lack the altruistic motivations that guided the producers of the original “Sesame Street.” The evidence from social science suggests that biased or sensationalist news programs may misinform citizens or discourage civic engagement, and that we should also be cautious about what we give up for the sake of entertainment.

Jonathan Rothwell is the Principal Economist at Gallup, a nonresident senior fellow at the Brookings Institution and a visiting scholar at the George Washington University Institute of Public Policy. He is the author of a book, “ A Republic of Equals : A Manifesto for a Just Society,” to be published by Princeton University Press in the fall, on the causes of income inequality. You can follow him on Twitter at @jtrothwell , and listen to his podcast, “ Out of the Echo Chamber .”

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Advantages And Disadvantages Of Watching Movies

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    Here, we list 10 benefits of watching movies with your family. 1. Strengthens Family Bonds. Photo courtesy of Din Jimenez via Flickr. Spending time with your family greatly improves the emotional bonding of family members toward one another. And what better way to do so than to watch movies together.

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